7th grade IB Life Science classes are starting a unit on Ecosystem Interdependence. Mrs. Gens thought it would be a great idea to begin with an owl pellet dissection so that students can investigate predator/prey relationships. What is really cool about this investigation is many students are finding seeds or remnants of small insects in the owl pellets as well, which leads to discussions about food chains. One class had many seeds and were able to see the complete food chain of producer, primary consumer (mouse) and Apex predator (owl) just by dissecting one pellet.
Please note that the Owl Pellets were purchased through Carolina Biological using donations from DonorsChoose.org. The pellets are NOT poop. They are indigestible remains of prey which are cast from the mouth of owls and sterilized prior to handling.